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Investigation launched after child seen lying with head over train platform edge

The photo has sparked an investigation by the British Transport Police. Credit: Tim Brown

An image of a child seen lying on the platform of Trowbridge station, with his head over the edge, has sparked an investigation.

The picture was taken by Tim Brown, who was travelling in Wiltshire but also works for Network Rail, as he was concerned for the boy's safety.

Mr Brown shared the image on social media, along with the response he said he got from the man who was with the young children.

Spoke to the 'Adult', his reply was 'the train's not due'. When I pointed out there may be others ie. Freight, empties, unscheduled etc the reply was 'The next ones not till 1638'.

After speaking to the guard and explaining to the man that people are seriously injured and die doing this I was told (by the not so responsible adult) I was a do-gooder and the lad just wanted to look at the track.....I can only try.

– Tim Brown

Network Rail is currently running a campaign to combat dangerous behaviour on the tracks.

They say the number of young people taking risks has soared by almost 80% in the past five years.

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British Transport Police say they are investigating after seeing the photograph and are making enquiries but no arrests have been made.

"We ask the public to take care when using the rail network, and to follow the safety guidelines provided by rail operators to avoid risking lives or serious injury."

Great Western Railway, who manage Trowbridge station say:

"Trains often pass through railway stations without stopping, and without appearing on any timetable, at very high speeds.

"Stay safe by keeping back from the platform edge and behind the yellow line at all times, and listen out for announcements."

Tim Brown says he hopes the photo will encourage others to talk about rail safety.